Sukkot Eve in Israel

Sukkot Eve marks the beginning of Sukkot, a week-long Jewish festival also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or Feast of Booths. It typically falls in September or October, starting on the 15th day of Tishrei in the Hebrew calendar.

History and Significance:

Sukkot commemorates the Israelites' 40-year journey through the desert after their exodus from Egypt, during which they lived in temporary shelters called sukkahs. It is also a harvest festival, celebrating the gathering of agricultural produce.

Traditions:

• Building a Sukkah: Jews build temporary huts with roofs made from organic materials like palm leaves. These structures are reminders of the fragile dwellings used by their ancestors.
• Ushpizin: There is a tradition to invite symbolic guests (ushpizin) into the sukkah, representing biblical figures such as Abraham and Moses.
• Four Species: Participants perform rituals with four species of plants mentioned in the Torah - etrog (citron), lulav (palm frond), hadass (myrtle twigs), and aravah (willow branches).

Activities on Sukkot Eve:

• Meal Preparation: Families prepare festive meals to be enjoyed in the sukkah.
• Decorating: The sukkah is often decorated with hanging fruits, vegetables, and crafts.
• Prayers: Special prayers are recited, including those involving waving the Four Species.

On Sukkot Eve, as night falls, many gather for a festive meal inside their sukkahs to kick off this period of joy and thanksgiving. It's both a time for religious observance and cultural celebration.